Baby Carriers: Use Them Correctly To Keep Your Baby Safe!

Using any type of baby product means that you should always be keeping an eye on your precious little one.

Many parents make the mistake of thinking that every product available is going to be completely safe for their child, and that’s not always true! While baby carriers are something a lot of parents are using these days, you should know that there have been some recent deaths attributed to improper use of them.

It doesn’t mean that they’re unsafe, but it does mean that there are some precautions you should take while carrying your baby around in a baby carrier or sling to make sure that they are safe at all times.

Make Sure Your Baby Can Breathe Properly

The main hazard of baby slings is that they can be a suffocation hazard if used incorrectly. Young babies are not able to control their breathing well — being unable to move their heads if their breathing is restricted, and you should always make sure that your baby is properly breathing at all times when they are in their carrier.

It’s best to position your baby so that you can always see his or her face, making it easy to tell if everything is okay.

If your baby is younger than 4 months, be very careful not to allow their chin to rest on his or her chest. This can restrict breathing, leading to a suffocation hazard.

This position is often called a “C-like position” and you should simply adjust them to a more flat position if you notice them with their chin near their chest. If you wish, you can place a small, folded blanket or towel behind your baby’s neck to help keep their chin off of their chest.

Read the Included Instruction Manual/Guide

Something I’d recommend with any baby product is to thoroughly read the included instruction manual or guide that comes with it, and that especially includes baby carriers.

The manual should show you the proper way to use the carrier in order to make it completely safe for your baby, and you should always read it before using it for the first time.

More Miscellaneous Safety Tips

When your baby starts reaching for objects on their own, be very careful in making sure that any potentially dangerous objects stay out of your baby’s hands as well as out of the carrier.

Look over the baby carrier before every use, making sure that the material is still strong and that the seams are in good condition. You should never use a baby carrier that looks as though it is becoming worn or frayed.

When using the carrier, always be aware of your surroundings. Make sure that there is nothing around you that might come into contact with your baby, injuring him or her. Hot drinks like coffee should always be kept away from your baby and I wouldn’t recommend drinking them while using your carrier in a front-carry position.

When first getting used to properly using the sling, you can use one hand to hold it. Over time you should become confident in using the carrier without touching it with your hands, which is the proper way to use it.

The below video demonstrates why some types of baby carriers — specifically bag-style carriers — can be a suffocation hazard to your baby.

Baby carriers are perfectly safe to use as long as you take the proper precautions. These tips should go a long way toward making your adventures with your baby fun and safe ones. :)

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All information on this website is intended for entertainment and educational purposes only. It is not a replacement or substitute for professional medical advice and/or treatment. Consult with your own doctor for information and advice on your specific questions.

If you're new to the site, be sure to start here. If you're pregnant, you'll want to check this out, and if you have a baby, click here.
If you want to save money on your little one, be sure to check out my free guide below!